On Sunday, I completed my longest and most challenging training ride so far in preparation for Race Across America (RAAM). Not because of the distance, but due to the weather conditions. The route took me from Tartu to Pärnu and back – over 370 km in total.
The Beginning – Cold Morning and Headwind
I set off early in the morning from Tartu, with temperatures a few degrees below zero. The wind chill made it feel even colder. However, my body and mind were fresh, and the energy from breakfast helped push me steadily into the headwind. The first few hours passed quickly and without issues.
Pärnu – Strategic Stop
Upon arrival in Pärnu, I still felt physically strong, but the cold and a creeping energy deficit were beginning to set in. Thankfully, I had planned ahead: a warm meal and drink awaited me at my mother-in-law’s, as well as a change into dry base layers – essential for getting rid of the deep-seated chill. Without this stop, the ride back would’ve been incredibly tough, if not dangerous.
The Ride Back to Tartu
In the afternoon, the sky turned hazy, temperatures dropped further, and the final 100 kilometers became a real test of willpower. Drinks on the bike turned ice cold, and energy bars were rock solid – not exactly appetizing. I had to stop at a gas station for hot cocoa and room-temperature cola to restore energy. Breaks had to be short – standing still for more than a few minutes let the cold creep in, and it became nearly impossible to warm up again.
By the time I got back to Tartu, it felt like my face and airways had been frostbitten. Next time, I should bring a sky mask or stick closer to home, where I can change clothes and warm up if needed.
The Day After – Takeaways and Lessons
That evening and night I feared I might have caught a cold, but luckily I woke up feeling fine. What made me especially happy was that my muscles felt great – no soreness or stiffness after 11 hours in the saddle. That’s a good sign, since RAAM will demand 18–20 hours on the bike per day for about 10 consecutive days.
Once again, I was reminded how hard it is to take in enough energy during such a long ride. It’s often said jokingly that RAAM isn’t just a cycling race – it’s also an eating competition. The night after the ride, I woke up twice because my body was demanding food.
Training Stats (from GarminConnect)
- Distance: 376.7 km
- Moving time: 10:55:58
- Stopped time: approx. 1 hour
- Average HR: 120
- Calories burned: 8702 kcal
- Gear shifts: 1276
- Weight difference: 1 kg lighter at the end (a sign hydration was sufficient)
Nutrition during the ride:
- 19 gels
- 10 energy bars
- 2 x 100g halva
- Cocoa with plant-based milk
- 4 salt capsules
- 2.25 L water + 1.5 L vitamin-enriched water
- 0.5 L cola
Lunch In Pärnu:
- 2 slices of toast with wild pesto
- ~300 g stew
- Large cup of coffee with honey
What’s Next?
Sunday’s ride was just the beginning. In a few days, I’ll start a multi-day training cycle where I’ll spend nearly all waking hours on the bike. The forecast is rough – just a few degrees above freezing, with rain and maybe even snow.
On one of those days, my support team will be joining me so we can simulate a full RAAM race day and test equipment and team coordination.